A snapshot of some events taking place across Saskatchewan this spring and summer.

There are plenty of things to do and places to go this spring and summer—from visiting lakes and provincial parks to attending concerts—but nothing quite beats the thrill of a festival during the warmer months. From exotic animals to EDM in the woods, there’s something for everyone. 

No matter what you’re into or your schedule, there’s an event coming to Saskatchewan with your name on it. 

Here’s a list of a few of the unique festivals gracing the prairie plains this summer:

Saskatoon Running Festival — April 12 to April 13

Organized by 321 Go Running and sponsored by Craven SPORT Services, this two-day festival features three different walk/run options for runners of all levels: a 5K run/walk, 10K run/walk and 10-mile run. The event offers a shake-out run, free seminars to help people prepare for the courses, music stations throughout the course and snacks at the finish line village. Perfect for anyone looking to get involved with the first major road running event of the year, or just a fun way to keep active this spring.

All net proceeds from the event go directly to Prairie Run Crew, an Indigenous-led not-for-profit running clinic that helps at-risk youth learn how to run and embrace active lifestyle choices.

If you’re looking for something to do later this month, be sure to check the festival out. It’s a great way to keep active and help a great cause, regardless of your running experience. Registration is open until April 12, and entry prices include a free t-shirt and custom medal on top of race roster fees!

Wildlife Festival — April 25 to April 27

Lizards, capybaras and sloths—oh my! Whether you’re deeply interested in wildlife or just have a love of cute animals, this festival is the place for you. Organized by Cobb’s Exotic Animal Rescue Foundation—a non-profit division of Cobb’s Adventure Park—this event will allow visitors to learn about and interact with various exotic animals through engaging stage shows and educational displays. Visitors will have plenty of opportunities to interact with, pet and take pictures with all the various animals throughout the three-day festival. 

The festival features three exhibits that highlight animals from different regions and promote awareness about animal rehabilitation, as well as educating the public about responsible pet ownership, while raising money to help the animals live safely, healthily and happily.

There will be an adults-only night from 7-9 p.m. on Friday, featuring trivia, comedy, special experiences and bar service for anyone looking for a fun thing to do with friends or a unique date night experience. Back by popular demand, there will also be a low-sensory hour from 10-11 a.m. on Saturday to accommodate visitors with noise sensitivity or who have difficulties with crowds.

100% of the proceeds go towards the care of all the exotic animals featured at the event, and are supported by the foundation. The event will be hosted in Hall E, WTC at Prairieland Park. Tickets are still available through the Wildlife Festival website. 

Vesna Festival 2025 — May 10

Experience the rich culture of Ukraine with delicious food and incredible performances at TCU place this May at the Vesna Festival. The first Vesna Festival was held on May 31, 1974, and over 50 years later, it continues to show the people of Saskatchewan just how integral Ukrainian culture is to the community through incredible yearly festivities. 

The event features plenty of food, a boutique of handcrafted gifts and clothing, cultural displays, craft-making for children and work from resident artist Nataliia Garmasar. Visitors will also get to enjoy an evening full of stellar entertainment, with performances from local Ukrainian dance bands Nova Mria and Half Na Piv. They’ll also have the opportunity to watch some incredible dancing and even join in as the night goes on! 

The dress code is semi-formal, so make sure to dress up for this night of fun and festivities. Tickets and food passes are still available at the Vesna Festival Website, but food passes are limited, so purchase early to secure yours. 

Art in the Garden Festival – June 14.

Presented by local business Wiebe Works, this year marks the sixth annual Art in the Garden Festival in Saskatoon. Run by the Wiebe family, the festival aims to provide a platform for local artists from diverse cultural backgrounds to showcase their craft and expand their reach. The family’s farm near Langham and Saskatoon has hosted the event for the past five years.  

The yearly festival brings the community together to celebrate the local talent, art, music and culture that Saskatoon has to offer. Highlights include an artisan market where visitors can check out and support local artists and vendors, a main stage packed full of talented musicians and a diverse lineup that spans genres—from bluegrass to hip-hop. The best part of the festival is the diversity in all of the art that’s showcased, both visually and musically. 

The event is also family friendly, with a children’s area full of fun activities so visitors of all ages can have a blast at the festival. 

Be sure to check out the website for more information on the festival lineup and vendors, and to snag tickets before they sell out! 

Saskatoon Fringe Festival — July 31 to August 9.

Hosted by the 25th Street Theatre, the Fringe Festival is returning for another year to celebrate theatre, culture and the arts. 

This 10-day community festival features various theatre performances and outdoor shows by artists from all around the world while also highlighting plenty of local talent. The street festival is full of plenty of artisan vendors, food trucks and stalls, carnival games and more! Visitors of all ages and backgrounds will be sure to have a blast. 

A fun fact: 25th Street Theatre was founded by a group of USask graduates in 1972, so make sure to go out and support our Alum and their legacy by having a great time at the Fringe this summer! 

Check out their website and social media for more information and updates on the festival closer to the date. 

Rock the River Festival – August 15 to August 17.

Rock the River is a three-day outdoor event held at the Bessborough Gardens at the Delta Hotels by Marriott. It’s one of the most popular events of the summer, hosting artists from all over the country, so if you’re a fan of Rock music, you don’t want to miss out.

This year’s lineup is full of outstanding Canadian musicians, including artists like Steve Augery, Tommy Decarlo, Streetheart, Honeymoon Suite and Haywire. 

Visit their website or social media pages for more information on the event, updates, and to purchase tickets. The festival has sold out in the past, so it might be a good idea to grab some tickets before they’re all gone!

Electric Sky Festival – August 22 to August 25.

The Electric Sky Music & Arts Festival is a unique electronic music festival held every year up North at the Ness Creek Festival Site near Big River, Saskatchewan. Set within a picturesque area nestled within the boreal forest, the festival allows attendees to connect with nature while also enjoying the electric festivities. 

The festival features a diverse lineup of electronic music performances from artists like Body Breakers, Charly Hustle and Diemetic. Electric Sky also hosts different art installations and workshops throughout the weekend, making sure there’s never a dull moment throughout the three-day festival. 

Whether you’re an avid electric music fan or just interested in experiencing something new during your camping trip this summer, Electric Sky has something for everyone. Visitors can expect a welcoming and vibrant community atmosphere at Electric Sky, with opportunities to learn new things, check out local vendors and engage with interactive art displays. 

The festival also emphasizes sustainability and respect for the environment while they’re partying, encouraging everyone in attendance to be mindful of their ecological footprint during their visit to the forest.​

Visit the official Electric Sky website for the most up-to-date information on the 2025 lineup, tickets, and other details.